The Ghana Prisons Service is set to play a greater role in national development by contributing to the production of sanitary pads, school furniture, and uniforms under key government initiatives, Interior Minister Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka has disclosed.
Speaking at the launch of the Government Accountability Series on Monday, July 14, 2025, Mr. Muntaka revealed that discussions are underway between the Ministries of Interior and Education to formalize the collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding.
Under the proposed arrangement, inmates will be tasked with producing 20% of sanitary pads distributed under the Free Sanitary Pad Initiative, along with 30% of school desks and 30% of school uniforms supplied to basic and senior high schools across the country.
According to the Minister, this move is part of broader reforms within our prison system to provide inmates with valuable skills, boost rehabilitation efforts, and contribute to national development.
The Free Sanitary Pad Distribution Programme, launched in April 2025 by President John Dramani Mahama, is aimed at promoting menstrual hygiene, enhancing school attendance among girls, and advancing gender equality.
The initiative targets schoolgirls from Primary 5 to SHS across Ghana.
Mr. Muntaka added that by engaging the prison service in production, government hopes to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and offer practical training opportunities to inmates preparing for reintegration into society.
The Interior Minister emphasized that the partnership would not only support critical social programmes but also reflect the government’s commitment to restorative justice and human capital development.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/Hamdia Mohammed
